Bangladesh seeks neutral venue for T20 World Cup 2026 matches amid Mustafizur IPL controversy

Bangladesh is considering playing its ICC T20 World Cup 2026 fixtures outside India following the abrupt exit of fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL. The country’s interim government has directed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to formally approach the ICC over relocating their matches, citing concerns over player dignity and security.

Bangladesh’s sports adviser, Asif Nazrul, confirmed the development through a social media post, stating that the issue gained urgency after Mustafizur was released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Sri Lanka has emerged as the preferred alternative venue for Bangladesh’s matches in the global event.

According to sources, the matter was deliberated during an emergency BCB meeting. The BCCI reportedly instructed KKR to let go of Mustafizur, who was signed for INR 9.20 crore, after widespread backlash on social media over the franchise’s decision to rope in a Bangladeshi player amid political tensions.

Nazrul strongly criticised the decision, calling it an insult to Bangladesh cricket. In his statement, he alleged that the Indian cricket board acted under pressure from extremist groups and condemned the removal of Mustafizur despite a valid contract.

Also Read: KKR asked to release Mustafizur Rahman from IPL 2026 squad amid political tensions

“As the minister overseeing sports, I have asked the cricket board to write to the ICC detailing the entire incident,” Nazrul said. “If Bangladeshi players are not allowed to play in India despite having contracts, then we cannot risk sending our team there for the World Cup due to safety concerns. We want our matches shifted to Sri Lanka.”

He further announced that IPL matches will no longer be broadcast in Bangladesh, adding that the country will not tolerate what he termed as humiliation of its players or its cricketing identity.

BCB president Aminul Islam also confirmed that the board will raise the matter with the ICC, acknowledging that while India is the host nation, Bangladesh’s concerns need to be addressed. The BCB is expected to formally request the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s World Cup matches in the interest of player security.